PS leak - Lucas PS Stop Leak question

[cptok]

I just bought a '97 Taurus with 29K - and it appears the ps rack has a leak in the seal(s) according to a dealer. It dropped a little fluid on the driveway... which was my hint. Apparently this is not so uncommon with these cars.

I put Lucas Power Steering Stop Leak (12 oz) in as it is supposed to be very good and other Taurus owners have done it with great results. But I'm worried because the manual specs ATF Mercon fluid for the PS - - not PS fluid. Is this particular additive a bad idea?

Just as a note - I always thought ATF was "red" and the stuff that was in there (had to siphon some out to add the Lucas) looked more brown like oil. The car was immaculately maintained - so I'm assuming they may have changed the PS fluid.

 

[Rtstrider]

Everytime I've done a ps drain and fill the used ps fluid was brown. Some ps fluid is clear to start off with (Valvoline Maxlife). I personally use the Lucas ps stop leak for my fluid, works great! Stopped all of my squeals, and sealed my leaks!

 

[cptok]

Thanks for your input! I thought my thread had just died out. I've read good things about Lucas Stop Leak... but so many PS systems nowadays seem to spec ATF, so I worried about compatibility.

 

[alreadygone]

Wouldn't expect it to be a long term fix, but I've had customers extend time period before rack HAD to be replaced.

Bob

 

[unDummy]

30k mileage is pretty low for a 10 year car. Hope that there are some records or carfax to prove that odo wasn't tampered with.

Yep, stop leak if a short term fix. Sure beats replacing or rebuilding a rack.

Consider a high mileage ATF for future service. Valvoline Maxlife ATF and Pennzoil/Quaker State High Mileage ATF should also help with those seal issues. Consider siphon/refilling your PS reservoir 2-3 times a year to keep fluid fresh.

Don't worry about the Lucas, especially if it is working. ATF and power steering fluid are very similar. Your location also isn't cold enough to cause reduced PS affect that 'snot' can sometimes cause.